Chile Economic Activity Contracts Again

2026-07-01 12:41 By Larissa Caser 1 min. read

Chile's IMACEC economic activity index fell 0.9% year-on-year in May 2026, marking the fifth consecutive month of contraction, though less sharply than the 1.2% decline recorded in April.

Goods production contracted 4.7%, reflecting a sharp drop in mining output (-11.6%), particularly copper, alongside a 1.7% decline in manufacturing, while production of other goods was unchanged.

Meanwhile, services activity grew 1.0%, supported by stronger personal services, especially health and education, which partly offset weaker business and transport services.

Trade increased 0.8%, driven mainly by retail and automotive sales.

On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, economic activity edged down 0.2% in May, reserving a 0.1% increase in the previous month.



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Chile Economic Activity Contracts Again
Chile's IMACEC economic activity index fell 0.9% year-on-year in May 2026, marking the fifth consecutive month of contraction, though less sharply than the 1.2% decline recorded in April. Goods production contracted 4.7%, reflecting a sharp drop in mining output (-11.6%), particularly copper, alongside a 1.7% decline in manufacturing, while production of other goods was unchanged. Meanwhile, services activity grew 1.0%, supported by stronger personal services, especially health and education, which partly offset weaker business and transport services. Trade increased 0.8%, driven mainly by retail and automotive sales. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, economic activity edged down 0.2% in May, reserving a 0.1% increase in the previous month.
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